From zero-waste stores to responsible product sourcing, these local stores are doing their part to make the region a little greener.
April is the month to think about sustainability. (Earth Day is April 22 and Arbor Day is the following Friday, April 29.) Here are five great places to shop sustainably this month and beyond.
This shop in Old Town Alexandria is the first zero-waste store in the area. Customers who visit are asked to bring their own bags and jars to buy bulk and plastic-free goods. Their straws, cutlery, and tiffins are all big sellers (and meant to cut out takeout waste). Their reusable wraps for food have pretty cute designs too. 913 King St., Alexandria
You’ve seen the TV commercials, but did you know Belfort prides itself in sustainability? The company has a responsible wood-sourcing policy. They commit to the responsible use of forest resources, particularly the wood used in their furniture. They also work with their suppliers to get rid of wood from unacceptable sources and increase the amount of responsible wood they get over time. Some of those unacceptable sources include: illegally harvested or traded timber, timber harvested in violation of human rights, or in areas that are threatened by poor forest management and more. We also love this: For every delivery they make, Belfort Furniture plants a tree! 22250 Shaw Rd., Dulles
Wonder what a zero-waste store is? They have been popping up all over the world, and there’s one in Vienna now. Trace: The Zero Waste Store has little to no plastic packaging, and customers can refill their own jars, bottles, and bags with items like grains, beans, spices, and more and purchase them by the ounce or pound. Trace is open for food, spice, and soap refills, and other eco-friendly items. We particularly love the little wool dryer balls handmade by artisans in Nepal. The little sloths, ladybugs, and piglets are just adorable! 140 Church St. NW, Vienna
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